Meet Sarah Beukeboom, Project Lead – Environmental at PRI Engineering. With a background in environmental science and geoscience, Sarah brings a unique blend of technical expertise, field experience, and environmental insight to every project she leads. From conducting subsurface investigations across North America to helping expand PRI’s environmental services, Sarah has carved out a meaningful career in a field traditionally underrepresented by women — and she’s doing it with purpose, passion, and a commitment to protecting the environment for future generations.

Building a Career Below the Surface

From hiking trails to borehole sites, Sarah Beukeboom’s journey into geoscience was rooted in a passion for the outdoors and a deep curiosity about how our world works — both above and below ground. Today, she plays a pivotal role at PRI Engineering, contributing her expertise in environmental science and geotechnical investigations, while also helping pave the way for other women in engineering and geoscience.

A Journey Fueled by Curiosity and Purpose

Sarah began her academic path with a degree in Environmental Science, driven by an interest in how people interact with the natural world. But it was during her Earth Resources Technician diploma that her passion for geology and geotechnical work truly took shape. She gained hands-on experience during a co-op placement as a geotechnical lab technician at GHD in Peterborough, which evolved into a materials testing role within the same company.

Soon after graduating, Sarah joined PRI Engineering, drawn by the opportunity to travel and explore subsurface conditions across North America. “I was excited about the chance to conduct field investigations in geotechnical, hydrogeological, and environmental contexts,” she explains. “And at a smaller firm like PRI, I knew I’d have the chance to take on responsibilities and learn things I might not experience early on in a larger organization.”

Bringing Geoscience to Life in the Field

Before transitioning into her current role, Sarah worked as a Field Representative, conducting everything from borehole and test pit investigations to solar foundation testing, concrete inspections, and environmental sampling. Her work took her across Canada and the U.S., including Alberta, New York, Virginia, Maryland, Boston, and throughout Ontario — helping inform renewable energy projects and environmental assessments along the way.

Today, as a Project Lead, Sarah is focused on expanding PRI’s environmental department under the mentorship of Qualified Person Arash. She prepares proposals and reports related to Excess Soil Management and Environmental Site Assessments, coordinates projects, and still occasionally heads into the field when needed. Her shift away from travel aligns with her current priority — her family — but her impact and leadership at PRI continue to grow.

Favourite Parts of the Job

For Sarah, the highlights of working at PRI go beyond the technical challenges. She values the close-knit, supportive team environment, the professional development opportunities, and the space to grow into new roles. “PRI supported me while I was completing university credits to meet the requirements for my Geoscientist-in-Training designation,” she says. “That kind of support makes a big difference.”

Among the projects she’s most proud of are the Brooks Solar Project and recent ESA work at Walsh Road and Haliburton’s Industrial Road — initiatives that combine her geotechnical and environmental expertise to help move sustainable development forward.

Life Beyond the Jobsite

To those considering a career in geotechnical engineering or joining PRI, Sarah offers candid and encouraging advice:

“As a woman in engineering or geoscience, you may face unique challenges — but having strong female representation at PRI helps create confidence and support. Always do your best, even when it’s tough. Learning through challenges builds resilience, and those moments are what shape your confidence. The experiences you’ll have at PRI are unlike anything you’d find elsewhere.”

A Role Model in the Making

Sarah’s journey reflects what’s possible when curiosity meets opportunity — and when women are empowered to lead in traditionally male-dominated fields. Her story is a testament to the value of persistence, passion, and the power of supportive workplaces in helping professionals thrive.

Employee Spotlight: Sarah Beukeboom